A 50-metre exclusion zone was set up around the scene of a fire at an industrial unit after a number of gas canisters were discovered.

Two acetylene cylinders exploded in the fire at a unit at Morley Carr Business Centre, in Carr Lane, Low Moor, Bradford.

Residents had to be evacuated, although they were beginning to be allowed to return to their homes during the course of yesterday.

Odsal fire crews were called to Access Rentals shortly before 11pm on Thursday following reports of a van fire. On arrival the crew discovered smoke billowing out of a haulage company unit. The roof fell in.

A second alarm was made and crews from across the district attended the scene.

Access Rentals said its building had been badly smoke damaged but the firm expected to be trading again by next week. The cause of the fire is being investigated.